Drama therapy combines the aims and techniques of drama/theatre with those of psychotherapy to treat individuals in crisis and help those with special needs to expand their quality of life. New York University was the first in the country to develop an academic program leading to a Master of Arts degree in drama therapy. The program attracts theatre professionals and educators, therapists, and those working in the fields of medicine, nursing, and special education. Students come from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds to study and apprentice with the leading professionals in the creative arts therapies. Classes are small and instruction individualized. Graduates of the program are eligible for New York State Licensure as creative arts therapists. Completion of New York State Licensure requirements allows one to engage in private psychotherapy practice. (See also Music Therapy in this department and Art Therapy in the Department of Art and Art Professions.)